Vilma Santos on political dynasty accusations vs her family: We’re here to serve

(From left) Luis Manzano, Vilma Santos and Ryan Recto. Image: INQUIRER.net/Anne Pasajol

LIPA CITY, Batangas—Vilma Santos-Recto underscored her and her sons Luis Manzano and Ryan Recto’s intent to serve the public, as she addressed the political dynasty accusations against them.

Santos-Recto is vying to return as Batangas governor, while Manzano is running for vice governor. Ryan, meanwhile, filed his candidacy for Batangas 6th district representative, the position previously held by his father, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.

The Star for All Seasons spoke about the matter when asked about her thoughts on political dynasties, during the opening ceremony of the Barako Fest on Thursday, Feb. 13, in Lipa City, Batangas.

“With all honesty, we just don’t want to entertain that. We are here to serve and people will judge us. That’s all,” Santos-Recto said.

Manzano also responded to the question and stressed that their fate as public servants lies on the voters.

“We simply submit ourselves to the electoral process. Basta ang hangad namin ay ‘yung paglilingkod na gusto naming ibigay sa bawat Batangueño,” he said.

“Kung saan mapunta ang paghahangad namin sa paglilingkod, kung saan namin gustong ilagay ang puso namin ay nakasalalay sa botante ‘yon,” he added.

Ryan, for his part, reiterated his older brother’s sentiment. “We’re here to be of service to the people and ultimately, the choice will always be theirs. That’s about it.”

Ryan also emphasized in a separate statement the upbringing he and Manzano had was one of the factors why he decided to enter politics.

“Me and my brother, we were raised na to whom much is given, much is expected. We were thought to do our part for the community whenever there’s an opportunity that comes up,” he said.

“If there’s an opportunity to do good and serve, why not take it? If you can help, how can you say no?” he added.

Showcase of culture, entrepreneurship of Batangueños

During the event, Santos-Recto, Manzano and Ryan also expressed pride as they highlighted the purpose and success of the annual celebration of the Barako Fest.

This year’s celebration features hundreds of entrepreneurs and several activities including contests, exhibitions and celebrity performances for the Batangueños to enjoy from Feb. 13 to 15.

The opening ceremony also included the groundbreaking for The Bean at Barako Triangle project.

“Team work is the magic word,” Santos-Recto said, vowing to continue to “work as a team and a family” for the province of Batangas.